Gout is a systemic condition caused by the buildup of uric acid in the joints, resulting in inflammation, swelling, and pain, most commonly in the first metatarsal phalangeal joint (big toe) or in the ankle joint. This tends to occur intermittently. Gout will flare up and then subside.
When the gout is present, there is exquisite pain to the touch. Even bed sheets can be too much pressure. Shoes are hard to wear during a bout. When it subsides, the foot functions normally.
Other names or similar foot conditions:
- Gouty arthritis
- Hyperuricemia
- Gout attack
Symptoms:
- Inflammation, swelling, and tenderness in the joint of the first toe
- Touching or moving it is intensely painful
- Extreme sensitivity to touch – such as a bed sheet over the toe
- Typically occurs in only 1 joint at a time
Signs to look for:
- Inflammation, swelling, and tenderness in the joint of the first toe, one joint vs. several
- Lab tests to determine uric acid levels
Possible Causes:
- High levels of uric acid in blood
- Dietary habits can cause the high levels of uric acid
- Genetic predisposition to excessive uric acid production, exacerbated by dietary habits such as too much alcohol and rich foods for that person’s system
Goals:
- Medical treatment
- Accommodate foot to shoe so toe does not rub
- Take pressure off toe
- Create optimal walking gait so toe is not unduly stressed whether during a gout attack or not
How We Help:
Arch Supports:
- BioOrthotics exercising support with metatarsal lift
- Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support for use when shoes cannot accommodate the BioOrthotics exercising support
Shoes:
- Depth shoes with stretchable uppers for wear during attacks
- Sandals where the straps clear the joint where the gout settles for wear during an attack
- Use of shoe spacers during a bout – remove the regular shoe bed and insert a thinner spacer to give more space for the tender toe
- Extra depth, double or triple depth shoe with high toe box, firm heel counter, rocker sole and connecting shank for regular wear
- Smart footwear, such as heel to toe rockers, negative heel shoes or shoes with titanium springs for regular wear
Other:
- Medical care as necessary
- Spot stretching with ball and socket tool on shoes as necessary
This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care. The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below. Copyright 2005-2011 Carole Romig
Sources Image: Decker, Albert, Contemporary Pedorthics Text: Podiatrychannel.com, Decker, Albert, Contemporary Pedorthics